Problems with Your Side Kick?

After you've practiced for a while, you may get frustrated with your ability to correctly execute certain kicks. Especially if you aren't 18, you probably don't have the flexibility and/or strength to perfectly execute a tae kwon do kick.

Hand techniques like blocks and strikes generally are more about form. Kicks require more additional measures.

I am most dissatisfied with my side kick at the moment, and found an article with tips to help me.

But a couple of basic training exercises can really help your kicks:

1. Stretching. You need flexibility to execute a kick, in your hips, you hamstrings, etc.
2. Strength exercises. Lunges, squats and abdominal exercises, with no weights, can help your kicking quite a bit.
3. "Wall" training. This is a way of practicing your kick, building strength and focusing on form all at the same time. Just stand by a wall, and use the extra balance to deliberately practice your kick. For a side kick or hook kick, your kick will be at 90 degrees to the wall, with your opposite hand behind you, bracing against the wall. For a back kick, you will face the wall, with both palms against the wall, and your shoulders squared to the wall. A round house kick, your hips and chest will be against the wall, and your upper leg will not move. You'll slowly complete only the final motion of the kick.

If you take a little time outside of class to practice these techniques, you'll soon be kicking better in class!